Don't Make Me Think: A Common Sense Approach to Web Usability

Web usability, though it may not be the most exciting task, is an essential skill for web developers to master. Steve Krug, author of Don't Make Me Think, adds a lighthearted touch to a serious subject by combining pinpoint web design examples with a bit a humor.

A topnotch website is easy to navigate because it is well-designed. A skillful web designer knows visitors who feel strained will leave your site. The ability to surf effortlessly brings visitors back to your website for more. The book presents whimsical before and after examples to show you how a web page should and should not- look.

Don't Make Me Think grabs your attention and holds it with a variety of clever cartoons, full color screen shots, informational sidebars and explanatory diagrams. You can review the appropriate use of conventions and content layout. For a practical, consistent approach other topics are covered including usability testing and how to use rollovers wisely.

Statements made in the book include tidbits of wisdom such as "We don't read pages, we scan them" and "We don't figure out how things work, we muddle through." Knowing how web visitors act helps web developers design sites for maximum navigability.

Although the book is easy reading, there is a wealth of useful content about web usability that every webpreneur should know. Subjects discussed in the book including designing the site for scanning, the proper use of copy, navigational design, typical user patterns, how a home page layout should appear and usability testing.

Krug wrote the book more than five years ago yet the facts about web usability remain much the same. Recently Krug added three new chapters to the book to provide updated advice and insights for both novice and experienced webpreneurs.

Krug's three new chapters go over important aspects of web design beyond usability such as common courtesy, accessibility of websites and getting past impractical executive web design whims. Webpreneurs discover why people leave websites and how to get them to stay by making the site user-friendly. Executive learn more about the nuts and bolts of proper web design for a greater understanding of what works and what doesn't.

An awkward website design sends visitors away to a more navigable competitor site. Outstanding web usability means visitors will enjoy surfing your website because they can easily find what they want. From photos to articles to certain products, a navigable website design means the differences between loyal customers and losing profits.

When you design a website, put yourself into the position of your visitors. Can you find what you want? Does the content make sense? Do the pages reach out and grab you or are they boring? Try out your website design and be honest with yourself. Does it make sense or is it a struggle to locate what you need?

Attract more visitors to your website with a compelling, usable website design. Learn more about how it all comes together by reading Steve Krug's must-have book, Don't Make Me Think for a common sense approach to web usability.